What to Know About Alcohol’s Impact on Your Health

Alcohol is the most common substance among Americans 12 and older, and each year approximately 178,000 people die from alcohol misuse in the U.S., according to The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. April is Alcohol Awareness Month, and we’re joining the conversation to raise awareness about alcohol's effects, promote resources for treatment and encourage open discussions about alcohol misuse.

What is alcohol misuse?

Alcohol misuse is more than just an occasional drink or two with dinner; it’s prolonged, consistent use of alcohol in a way that becomes harmful to one’s health or wellbeing. According to The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, it can look like four or more drinks on any day or eight or more per week for women, and five or more drinks on any day or 15 or more per week for men. Alcohol misuse may lead to physical, emotional or social problems.

What are the health risks of alcohol misuse?

Alcohol misuse can impose both short- and long-term consequences on a person’s life. From a short-term perspective, alcohol can impair judgment, reduce coordination and slow reflexes, leading to increased likelihood of accidents, injuries and risky behavior. Drinking large amounts of alcohol in a short period of time poses the risk of alcohol poisoning, a potentially deadly condition that can affect breathing, heart rate and body temperature and requires immediate medical treatment. 

Over time, continued alcohol misuse can lead to the development of chronic illnesses like liver disease, heart disease and a wide variety of gastrointestinal disorders. Long-term alcohol misuse is also linked to behavioral health conditions like anxiety, depression and substance use disorder. 

How can parents talk to children and teens about alcohol?

Parents play an important role in helping children and teens form a healthy relationship with alcohol. A good approach to these conversations is to be open and honest while still taking their age into consideration. One conversation probably won’t cut it; we suggest checking in with them frequently as they grow up, giving them the space to discuss their concerns and ask questions. Presenting factual information plainly and responsibly—rather than turning to scare tactics or admonishments—can help foster an environment where your child feels comfortable opening up to you. Most importantly, consistently remind them of your stance on alcohol use while living in your household, along with clear consequences.

What treatment options are available for alcohol misuse?

If you or someone you know is struggling with alcohol misuse, there are treatment options available. Detoxification, including ambulatory detox in an outpatient setting, may be necessary to help some individuals safely withdraw from alcohol while under medical supervision. From there, individual, group and family counseling can help address thought patterns and behaviors that may contribute to alcohol misuse. No matter where you are in your journey, remember that it’s never too late to seek help.

At CTI-OK, we provide a wide array of individualized treatment services designed to address substance use disorders, including specific programs for men, women and adolescents. Ready for help? Visit CTI-OK.org today or call 918-384-0002.